Paraguay enters the match in Philadelphia with momentum after eliminating four-time world champions Germany in the previous round. Coach Gustavo Alfaro's squad drew one-one after 120 minutes before winning 4-3 in a penalty shootout.
This marks only the second time Paraguay has advanced past a knockout round at the World Cup. Their previous similar achievement was in the round of 16 at the 2010 World Cup, when they defeated Japan 5-3, also in a penalty shootout. The South American representatives now aim for their second quarter-final appearance, following their feat 16 years ago.
However, limited scoring ability is a major concern for Paraguay. Coach Alfaro's team has not scored more than one goal in any of their seven most recent World Cup appearances.
More broadly, Paraguay has scored 33 goals in 31 matches at the sport's biggest tournament, averaging 1,1 goals per match. Among teams that have played 30 or more World Cup matches, only South Korea has a lower scoring rate, with an average of one goal per match (41 goals in 41 matches).
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Kylian Mbappe celebrates the opening goal with coach Didier Deschamps during France's 3-0 victory over Sweden in the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey, US on 30/6. *Photo: AP*
In contrast to Paraguay, France boasts a devastating attack. Kylian Mbappe scored two goals, while Bradley Barcola netted one in their 3-0 victory over Sweden in the round of 16.
With Mbappe involved in eight goals, Ousmane Dembele in six, and Michael Olise in five, France has become the first team since Brazil in 2002 to have three players contribute to at least five goals in a single World Cup. At that time, Ronaldo was involved in eight goals, Rivaldo in six, and Ronaldinho in five.
History also favors France. The "Blues" have won all seven of their most recent round of 16 matches at the World Cup. The last time they were eliminated at this stage was almost a century ago, at the 1934 World Cup, when they lost 2-3 to Austria after extra time.
Hong Duy
